what is an architectural technologist?

A career as an architectural technologist allows you to combine your interests in technology with building design. Your work entails bringing out the aesthetics of architecture using logical technology elements to create a functional building design. You support building projects by using your technical expertise to develop technical design elements.

Aside from developing the technical design, you work on a construction project to its completion. You decide the right technology, materials and processes necessary for the best performance of the building. You support other professionals in the construction industry and ensure the project meets the clients' requirements and intended functionality. Whether it is a residential building or a huge sports stadium, you monitor every aspect of construction to ensure suitable materials and best practices are used.

what does an architectural technologist do?

As a chartered architectural technologist, you monitor a project from start to finish. Once the building is in use, you need to conduct a survey and get feedback from the users on the functionality of the building and the maintenance required.

As an architectural technologist, you work for construction or engineering companies, private and government entities in charge of infrastructure projects or architectural consultancy firms. Some architectural technologists also work independently on short-term contracts or as consultants.

Would working as an architectural technologist suit your interest and passion for technology and architecture? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an architectural technologist role.
 

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average salary of an architectural technologist

According to National Careers, the average salary of an architectural technologists ranges from £20,000 to £60,000 per year. Entry-level positions often attract lower wages due to minimal work experience and transferable skills required. As you increase your experience and gain more qualifications, your compensation package reflects the additional responsibilities you handle.

Architectural technologists enjoy various benefits, including medical insurance and transport allowance. You are eligible for paid holiday time and bonuses for successful project completions.

how to increase your salary as an architectural technologist

As an architectural technologist, your salary depends on various factors. For instance, working for big organisations attracts different wages from smaller companies. Most large companies handle complex projects, which demands additional qualifications. Hence, the compensation package will reflect the projects' complexity and your capabilities. Smaller companies have limited resources and cannot afford to pay high salaries. Private sector companies also pay better compared to government entities.

Your location determines your earning potential. For instance, companies in large cities often pay more than small towns since the salary relies on the cost of living and demand for the services. Large cities have a high cost of living, and the demand for an architectural technologist is higher than in small towns.
 

Male smiling, standing outside on a balcony talking to a person
Male smiling, standing outside on a balcony talking to a person
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types of architectural technologists

The types of architectural technologists depend on the construction projects they work on, including:

  • residential architectural technologist: as an architectural technologist working on residential projects, you collaborate with homeowners and architects to prepare the technical designs for custom homes. You are in charge of determining the spatial and functional requirements for layouts. You also decide the materials needed and project timelines.
  • commercial architectural technologist: your work is to create technical designs for large projects for manufacturing plants or the government. Your job entails working on public buildings like museums, hotels and libraries. You bring out the aesthetic designs of architects to ensure the buildings appeal to the masses.
  • restoration architectural technologist: you don't always work on new projects as an architectural technologist. Sometimes, you are involved in restoring historic buildings and maintaining ancient properties. Your work is to assist architects in preserving historic buildings and ensuring structural integrity.
     
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working as an architectural technologist

Becoming an architectural technologist is an exciting career with various job prospects. Read on to discover the daily routines and responsibilities of architectural technologists.
 

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education and skills

To become an architectural technologist, you need the following educational qualifications and skills:

  • university degree or college: architectural technologists undertake a foundation degree, Higher National Diploma (HND) or a bachelor's degree. You can get a degree or HND in construction or architectural technology accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). Most courses include an internship or industry placement to gain practical experience. The entry requirements for a Higher National Diploma or foundation degree are 1 or 2 A Levels, while a bachelor's degree requires 2 or 3 A Levels.
  • apprenticeship: an apprenticeship approved by CIAT gives you relevant work experience and knowledge as an architectural technologist. Some of the apprenticeships include digital engineering technicians and construction design and build technicians. You need 5 GCSEs for an advanced apprenticeship or higher degree apprenticeship.
  • certifications and work experience: when you complete a course and have a few years of experience, you can apply for associate membership with CIAT if you meet the professional qualifications to receive a chartered status.

skills and competencies

To become a successful architectural technologist, you need the following skills and competencies:

  • communication skills: as an architectural technologist, you collaborate with a team of architects and various professionals that contribute to construction projects. It is vital to communicate your ideas clearly and assist other team members with their roles.
  • problem-solving skills: as an architectural technologist, you need problem-solving skills to help you deal with issues that arise during construction. When the construction work doesn't match the design, you can not deliver the best without creative problem-solving skills.
  • an aptitude for technology: as the person in charge of technology in building design, you need technical know-how to help you develop technical designs. Your aptitude for technology enables you to use architectural software and other tools to build the best designs.
  • Interpersonal skills: as an architectural technologist, you work alongside various construction workers, ensuring everyone is working toward the same goals. You need good communication and interpersonal skills to listen to everyone's ideas and motivate the team towards accomplishing the project.
     
Two men working together in an office environment
Two men working together in an office environment
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FAQs

FAQs about working as an architectural technologist

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